His health is still perfect and he is almost as active as a young warrior. He never has been ill with the exception that this spring, when he says, his “legs were sick,” in referring to a light attack of rheumatism.
Smith, whose real name is Ka-Be-Na-Gwe-Wes, says that he was 68 years old when he first saw a white man. He has learned to speak English since that time.
He never fails to have his photograph taken at every opportunity, including today at the Hakkerup Studio.
He refers to himself as a “ladies man,” as he claims to have been married nine times.
To Bemidji residents Smith has been known during the past few years as Chief Wrinkle Face, having received the name because of the wrinkles that time has worked into his bronzed features.
Because of the assistance he gave the Great Northern Company when that railroad first built through this country, Smith has always been given transportation, but because of his love for liquor, the company has brought him to Bemidji only a few times, and then only under the care of a friend.
The Bemidji Daily Pioneer; “Indian 110 Years Old Here. Chippewa From Cass Lake Comes to Bemidji and Proudly Has His Picture Taken. Claims He Has Had Nine Wives.”; June 8, 1911; p. 1.
John Smith, whose real name is Ka-Be-Na-Gwe-Wes
from a postcard sent to my grandma
__________________________________________________________
If you are interested in finding out more about your family history in Minnesota, I specialize in researching genealogical and historical records in Minn. and western Wis., including: census records, birth records, death certificates, obits, grave site photos, ship passenger lists, marriage records and declarations of intent/naturalization records. I will visit locations to research local history and county records, as well as take photos. Quick turnaround on MNHS records. Both short searches and family history reports available.
If you are interested in finding out more about your family history in Minnesota, I specialize in researching genealogical and historical records in Minn. and western Wis., including: census records, birth records, death certificates, obits, grave site photos, ship passenger lists, marriage records and declarations of intent/naturalization records. I will visit locations to research local history and county records, as well as take photos. Quick turnaround on MNHS records. Both short searches and family history reports available.
Discover your roots, and watch the branches of your family tree begin to grow.
Website: TheMemoryQuilt.com > click on Family History
Contact me at: pjefamilyresearch@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment